Glossary Updates12 new terms added to the glossaries · October 2, 2026, 22:44 CEST
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Glossary · Automation fundamentals, platforms and components

JavaScript

Also known as: JS, ECMAScript

German: JavaScript

In software engineering, JavaScript is a high-level programming language standardized as ECMAScript (ECMA-262). It runs in web browsers and, via runtimes such as Node.js, on servers and edge devices.

  • Automation components

In one sentence

JavaScript is a programming language standardized as ECMAScript (ECMA-262) that runs in browsers and, via Node.js, on servers and devices.

Example

A web-based HMI uses JavaScript in the browser to display live values it receives from the controller via WebSocket.

How it applies

  • Engineering: JavaScript is widely used for web HMIs, dashboards, device web servers and low-code tools such as Node-RED. It is not used for deterministic control tasks in the PLC.
  • Security: Web interfaces written in JavaScript must be protected against typical web vulnerabilities, such as cross-site scripting, and depend on third-party libraries that need updates.
  • Documentation: Document supported browsers and versions for web HMIs. For customizable scripting interfaces, describe the API and limits clearly.
  • Maintenance: Browser updates can change the behavior of web HMIs, so updates should be tested before rollout in production.

JavaScript vs. Java

Despite the name, JavaScript and Java are different languages with different runtimes and uses. JavaScript's standard name is ECMAScript; yearly editions add features.

By knowledge.aitechdoc.world · Published September 26, 2026 · Last reviewed

Source: ECMA-262, ECMAScript Language Specification (Ecma International)

Definitions follow the cited standards and specifications. Where a source is a copyrighted publication, such as an ISO, IEC or EN standard, the definition is a close paraphrase, not a verbatim quotation, so as not to infringe copyright. We recommend reading the original publication. The sections “How it applies” are editorial commentary by AI TechDoc Knowledge and are not part of any standard.

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